Boehner Cries Giving Catholic U. Commencement Speech

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House Speaker John Boehner shed tears (again) while giving the commencement speech at Catholic University in Washington.

Boehner addressed more than 1,500 students getting bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees during Saturday's commencement.

House Speaker John Boehner Weepy at Catholic U. Commencement

House Speaker John Boehner teared up before taking the podium at Catholic University's graduation. (Published Monday, May 16, 2011)

Some controversy preceded the Republican leader's appearance. A group of 80 Catholic University faculty signed a letter protesting Rep. Boehner's appearance earlier this week, criticizing his voting record on anti-poverty legislation.

A small group of students also protested the Speaker on Saturday, sending their own letter of protest, the Washington Post reported.

Rep. Boehner steered clear of these criticisms, spending much of his time on the podium describing his life story. At several points during his speech, while mentioning his family, the congressman openly wept, as he is inclined to do.

The ceremony was held on the steps of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in northeast Washington.